This fascinating patchwork undergarment, dating to the early Meiji period (1868–1880), is a vibrant example of domestic textile reuse and adaptation. Measuring 46 inches from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and standing 21 inches tall (117 cm x 53 cm), the garment is constructed using a variety of silk fabrics in a style similar to a short hanten or haori. The central body panels are crafted from a striking pink silk decorated with white shibori-dyed floral patterns, while the sleeves feature a contrasting blue silk with delicate white and red embroidery depicting seasonal grasses.

The garment shows clear evidence of a long functional life through significant alterations. Specifically, the yellow collar and certain blue structural panels appear to have been added or replaced during a later period, potentially in the Taisho era, to extend the garment's usability or update its aesthetic. This practice of "making do" and refreshing garments through patchwork was common in Japanese households, where silk was a precious commodity. Despite these historical modifications and minor wear consistent with its age, the undergarment remains in good condition and offers a tactile record of evolving textile tastes across the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

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